Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions are a beloved Southern comfort food—sweet, tender Vidalia onions baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce until bubbly, golden, and irresistibly savory. This simple yet indulgent casserole-style dish is a staple at potlucks, holiday tables, church suppers, and backyard gatherings across the South.

With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe proves that humble onions can truly steal the show.

What Are Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions?

Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions are a baked onion casserole made with:

Sweet Vidalia onions
Cheddar cheese
Butter

Creamy base (often mayonnaise or cream)
Simple seasonings

The onions soften as they bake, releasing natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the rich, savory cheese sauce.

Why This Southern Dish Is So Popular

This dish has earned its cult following because it is:

Incredibly easy to make
Budget-friendly

Made with pantry staples
Perfect for feeding a crowd
Comforting and nostalgic

It’s often described as a cross between scalloped potatoes and a cheesy onion gratin—but with even more flavor.

Flavor and Texture Profile

A perfect Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onion dish should be:

Sweet and savory

Ultra-creamy
Soft but not mushy
Rich without being overwhelming

The sweetness of the onions mellows during baking, creating a deep, almost caramelized flavor.

Why Vidalia Onions Matter

What Makes Vidalia Onions Special?

Vidalia onions are known for their:

High sugar content

Mild, non-sharp flavor
Juicy texture

They’re grown in Georgia, but widely used across the South—especially in Tennessee-style recipes.

Can You Substitute Other Onions?

Yes, but results will vary.

Sweet onions are the best substitute
Yellow onions are sharper

White onions are more pungent

For the classic flavor, Vidalia onions are strongly recommended.

Key Ingredients Explained

Vidalia Onions

The star of the dish.

Slice evenly for consistent cooking
Separate rings for best texture

Cheese

Sharp cheddar is traditional.

Adds bold flavor
Melts smoothly
Balances onion sweetness

Colby Jack or a cheddar blend also work well.

Creamy Base

Typically includes:

Mayonnaise

Heavy cream or half-and-half
Sour cream (variation)

Mayonnaise is classic and creates a rich, smooth sauce without tasting like mayo.

Butter

Adds richness and helps prevent sticking.

Seasonings

Simple is best:

Salt

Black pepper
Optional garlic powder or paprika

The onions and cheese should shine.

How to Make Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions (Step-by-Step Overview)

Step 1: Slice the Onions

Peel and slice onions into thick rings. Separate gently.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

Mix mayonnaise (or cream), cheese, butter, and seasonings until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble

Layer onions in a baking dish and spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake until onions are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let rest briefly before serving to allow sauce to set.

Why This Dish Works So Well

Natural sweetness from onions

Rich, creamy cheese sauce
Simple ingredients
Oven baking enhances flavor

It’s comfort food with almost no effort.

Pro Tips for the BEST Cheesy Vidalia Onions

Slice onions evenly
Use freshly shredded cheese

Don’t skimp on seasoning
Cover loosely if browning too fast
Let rest before serving

These small details make a big difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Watery Dish

Caused by overly thin onions or underbaking.

Overpowering Onion Flavor

Use sweet onions, not sharp varieties.

Greasy Texture

Avoid excessive butter or low-quality cheese.

Undercooked Onions

Bake until fork-tender.

Delicious Variations

Tennessee Cheesy Onions with Ritz Topping

Add crushed crackers and butter for crunch.

Bacon Cheesy Vidalia Onions

Mix in cooked bacon for smoky flavor.

Cheesy Onion Gratin

Add Parmesan and breadcrumbs.

Spicy Cheesy Onions

Add cayenne or jalapeños.

Keto Cheesy Vidalia Onions

Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This dish is perfect for prep in advance.

Assemble up to 24 hours ahead

Cover and refrigerate
Bake before serving

Great for holidays and potlucks.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers 3–4 days

Reheating

Oven at 325°F, covered
Microwave in short intervals

Add a splash of cream if needed.

Can You Freeze Cheesy Vidalia Onions?

Freezing is not ideal.

Onions release water

Creamy sauces may separate

Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What to Serve with Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Grilled steak
Baked ham
Fried chicken

Meatloaf
BBQ ribs

It’s especially popular at Easter, Thanksgiving, and summer cookouts.

Are Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions Kid-Friendly?

Yes.

Mild, sweet flavor
Creamy texture

Cheesy goodness

Even picky eaters often enjoy this dish.

Nutritional Overview (Approximate)

High in fat and calories

Naturally low in carbs
Very filling in small portions

Best served as a rich side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet onions instead of Vidalia?
Yes, but flavor may be slightly different.

Does it taste like mayonnaise?
No—the mayo melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Can I add garlic?
Yes, lightly—too much overpowers onions.

Why are my onions still crunchy?
They need more baking time.

Why Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions Are a Southern Classic

This dish remains a favorite because it:

Celebrates simple ingredients

Highlights sweet Southern onions
Feeds a crowd easily
Feels nostalgic and comforting

It’s a recipe that gets passed down and requested again and again.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions are rich, creamy, sweet, and deeply comforting—a true Southern side dish classic. With tender onions baked in a cheesy, savory sauce, this recipe proves that even the simplest ingredients can create unforgettable flavor.

Whether served at a holiday table or a casual family dinner, this dish always earns rave reviews.

Tennessee Cheesy Vidalia Onions: A Southern Side Dish Everyone Craves

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Instructions

Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8″ baking dish or 10″ cast-iron skillet.

Sauté onions (optional but recommended): Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions; cook 8–10 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Cool slightly.
→ Skip this step for a quicker version—just use raw onions.
Make filling: In a large bowl, combine onions, cheddar, sour cream, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well.
Assemble: Spread mixture into baking dish.

Add topping: Mix panko and 1 tbsp melted butter; sprinkle evenly over top.
Bake 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and topping is golden.
Rest 5 minutes before serving.

💡 Pro Tips:
– For extra richness, stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Gruyère.
– Make ahead: Assemble (unbaked) up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate and bake as directed (add 5–10 min if cold).

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving, serves 6):